The curious antics of former Bajrang Dal chief and a principal actor in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, Vinay Katiyar, are a pointer to the confusion in the saffron party's rank and file about its real identity.

Katiyar created a sensation on Monday by announcing that he had "renounced the world". The BJP was hard put to explain his sudden 'renunciation' plans.

"Katiyar ji is a spiritual person.

The curious antics of former Bajrang Dal chief and a principal actor in the Ram Janmabhoomi movement, Vinay Katiyar, are a pointer to the confusion in the saffron party's rank and file about its real identity.

Katiyar created a sensation on Monday by announcing that he had "renounced the world". The BJP was hard put to explain his sudden 'renunciation' plans.

He has pitched a tent on the bank of the Saryu river to do penance for a month. He has "shunned all worldly pleasures", including watching TV and talking on the phone. He did, however, speak for some time in the evening.

"Maagh ke maheene mein kalpa vaas kar raha hoon (I am engaged in a month- long period of fasting and prayers). This is the only few minutes that I respond to calls. Otherwise, I don't even use a phone," Katiyar said over the phone.

He made it clear that he had no plans to retire from politics. However, he said he was currently filled with a "feeling of renunciation and remorse" after walking so long on the " path of Lord Ram" and then deserting it.